217 years ago, Captain Meriwether Lewis and Lieutenant William Clark led a select group of U.S. Army and civilian volunteers to explore the newly acquired Louisiana Purchase. The goals of this expedition, commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson, were to find a practical route across the western part of the continent and to establish a U.S. presence in the new territory before European powers tried to claim it. Other objectives included studying plants, animals, and geography as well as establishing trade with local Native American tribes. The Corps of Discovery Expedition launched from Pittsburgh on August 30, 1803 and arrived at the Pacific Ocean on November 24, 1805. The journey followed the Ohio, Missouri, and Columbia Rivers as well as crossing the Continental Divide.

Today, you can relive their journey virtually with the Lewis & Clark Endurance Challenge! Run, Bike, Swim, Hike, Walk, or Paddle and post your activities to our online activity tracker. Follow your progress along our interactive maps. Choose from 4 different distances: Ohio River (981 miles), Missouri River (2,220 miles), Columbia River (311 miles), or the Entire Expedition (4,100 miles). The challenge begins when you register and ends when you complete your distance.

BEAUTIFULLY-DESIGNED FINISHER MEDAL (SEE MEDAL IMAGE BELOW):

You can expect your medal and shirt (if you order one) to be delivered by:

* December 31, 2020 if you sign up by November 30, 2020
* January 31, 2021 if you sign up by December 31, 2020
* February 28, 2021 if you sign up by January 31, 2021

THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE:

If you sign up and complete all four virtual event distances, you will receive a Lewis & Clark Endurance Challenge premium insulated water bottle plus a Lewis & Clark bumper sticker! These items will ship upon completion of all four distances.